Earlier this year more than 350 members of the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) participated in the 2012 NKBA Design Trends Survey to give their opinions about products, styles and designs that they view as becoming more popular with homeowners. Each member is a designer and specialist in bathroom or kitchen remodeling and their views tend to reflect what is happening in their specific market, however, the survey did show some common trends remodels in general throughout the U.S. and Canada.

For bathrooms one of the surprising comebacks is the bathroom medicine cabinet. Having been relegated to secondary status in recent years, people are finding that new and updated medicine cabinet designs allow for more efficient use of space when space is limited.

Traditional bathroom designs are no longer, well, traditional. Transitional is the latest buzzword when it comes to bathroom remodels, which incorporates elements of traditional and contemporary designs that create a modern classic look.

For bathroom vanity tops it’s all about solid surfaces. Granite and Quartz are still the most popular choices but Marble has taken the third spot and is trending higher. Other solid surfaces, such as glass, have also made a big jump in popularity as more styles and choices have hit the marketplace.

As far as color choices go, gray seems to be all the rage this year with that color choice having more than doubled in popularity in the last two years. Gray color schemes can be very attractive and distinguished without overpowering the look and overall bathroom design. Other popular choices include beiges, browns, bronzes, terracotta and greens.

Although brushed metal finishes have been rather standard equipment for many years when it comes to fixtures and hardware, perhaps one of the big surprises from this year’s survey was the comeback of polished chrome. Brushed nickel and brushed chrome is also down from the previous year along with satin nickel. Stainless steel has managed to retain its popularity as well as bronze.

Since trends do tend to change from year to year, it’s important to consult with a professional bathroom remodeler to get the latest most up to date information on popular trends and how to remodel your bathroom in such a way that can incorporate your favorite styles and create lasting functionality and design.

For Bay Area homeowners looking for new and interesting bathroom designs, the most difficult part is usually just getting started. There are so many choices and options available that, if you haven’t done your homework, could have you really scratching your head. The good news is that for Bay Area bathroom remodels there are plenty of resources to get you on your way to a new, exciting bathroom design.

In San Jose there are many exceptional San Jose bathroom remodeling contractors who can guide you through the process, showing you interesting concepts, fixtures, wall materials, tubs, showers and vanities. They are also the ones who can give expert advice on the cost of such a project and the best way to stay within your budget. If you don’t already know a bathroom remodeling contractor, one of the best referrals you can get is through your local kitchen and bath showroom. They will often work with many of the best contractors in the Bay Area and can probably give you a handful of calling cards.

These are all important questions to ask yourself before beginning any bathroom remodeling project. Go spend some time in your bathroom and try to imagine everything you’d like to change and how you’d like to change it, then make notes on all your thoughts. Write down any questions you have about installation, products and costs for when you meet with your contractor.

Take a look online or in magazines at other bathroom designs for inspiration. You may not even realize the various options or creative possibilities that exist until you’ve had a chance to see what other Bay Area bathroom remodels look like.

Go to your local Bay Area bathroom retailer and explore the various fixtures, woods, tiles, tubs and showers available and get some ideas on pricing as well. Ask lots of questions and always find out which products are most durable and come with manufacturers warranties.

Decide if you want your new bathroom remodel to be eco-friendly. There are entire product lines dedicated to using green, sustainable materials, like Bamboo, and environmentally friendly fixtures like low flush toilets.

Make a wish list of all the conveniences you’ve ever wanted in your bathroom and then discuss those ideas with your bathroom remodeling contractor. Ever wanted a TV in the bathroom? How about a telephone? Maybe his and her vanities or for some real, European style comfort, a bidet?

Bathroom remodels are a big investment and you may only do this once during the entire time you own your home, so if you’re in the Bay Area bathroom remodels and custom bathroom cabinets market, this can be your chance to have the dream bathroom design that you’ve always wanted.